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Dozens climb 2,200 steps at Nissan Stadium for 9/11 firefighters

Posted at 11:34 AM, Oct 19, 2018
and last updated 2018-10-20 09:02:54-04

Dozens of people climbed the equivalent of 110 stories at Nissan Stadium on Friday at the 9/11 stair climb.

On September 11, 2001, 343 New York City firefighters suited up for their last call. The 9/11 stair climb was created to honor their brave response to the Twin Towers.

"On 9/11, they busted their butt climbing those stairs," said Luke Maholland, of Pleasant View. "I like doing this just to remember that."

Each climber wore the face of fallen firefighter.

"My father and grandfather are both firefighters and I'm going to be a third generation firefighter," said Phil Gilman. "I remember going home [on 9/11] seeing my father all distraught knowing his brothers and sisters were up there."

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation organizes more than 50 stair climbs a year. The 9/11 stair climb benefits the FDNY Counseling Services Unit.

"Where people are usually enjoying the game and cheering the Titans, but today to do it for a different purpose is really important," said Tech Sgt. Danielle Hopkins.

The stair climb is part of the Firehouse Expo which is October 16 to October 20 at the Music City Center.